Stealing keys from exposed purses. Targeting cars that are warming up unattended. Fishing keys out of mechanic shop key drops.
These are tactics used frequently by car thieves – and police are requesting the public’s help cracking down on some of Surrey’s most wanted alleged auto crime offenders.
“People are surprised to learn that it’s not just kids stealing clunkers to go out joy-riding,” Cpl. Mike Spencer said in a release, noting that April is Auto Crime Enforcement Month. “More often stolen cars are actually being used to commit other crimes.”
Photos of Surrey’s most wanted alleged car thieves were released by RCMP Friday. All four men are sought for numerous crimes.
Matthew Soper, 29, is wanted for breach of probation, possession of stolen property over $5,000, dangerous operation of a motor vehicle, drive while prohibited, and identity theft.
Alexander Jelasco, 28, is sought for possession of stolen property under $5,000, possession of break-and-enter instruments, possession of weapon for dangerous purposes, and breach of undertaking and recognizance.
Richard Mantler, 44, is wanted for breach of undertaking, breach of probation, and assault.
Zak Haight, 28, is facing charges of obstructing a police officer, driving while prohibited, and driving while suspended.
The public’s help is integral to arresting offenders, said Cpl. Spencer, noting that simple precautions can often prevent robberies from happening in the first place.
“In order to prevent auto theft we really encourage people to not be complacent,” he said. “By not taking steps to reduce your chances of becoming a victim you are potentially putting you and your community at further risk of criminal activity.”
Since January 2015, the Surrey RCMP’s Auto Crime Target Team (ACTT) has helped arrest over 75 people for auto theft and auto theft related crimes.
Anyone with information about the most wanted men is asked to contact the Surrey RCMP at 604-599-0502 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS.
